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Have you ever experienced that nagging pain and discomfort caused by hammer toes? Don’t worry, you’re not alone.

Hammer toes are a common foot condition where one or more of your toes bend downward at the middle joint, resembling a hammer shape. While, old treatments such as splinting and surgery have been used for a long time. Shockwave therapy is now becoming more popular as a new and innovative option.

As a chiropractor for 25+ years, I’ve seen how hammertoes can be debilitating if not treated. They can make walking difficult, wear shoes comfortably, and even lead to other foot problems like corns and calluses.

Understanding Hammer Toes

But before diving into shockwave therapy nitty-gritty, let’s first understand what causes hammer toes. This condition can develop due to a variety of reasons, including:

Muscle Imbalance: When the muscles and tendons in your toes become imbalanced, it can cause the toe to bend downward.
I’ll-Fitting Shoes: Wearing shoes that are too tight or have high heels can hurt your toes and make them change shape over time.
Genetics: It influences the development of the hammer toe. Some people inherit a higher risk due to their foot structure and genetic traits.

Regardless of the cause, hammer toes can be uncomfortable and painful, especially when walking or wearing shoes. Common symptoms include:

Redness and swelling around the affected joint
Corns or sores form on the top of the toe
Difficulty moving the affected toe
Pain while walking or applying force to the toe

While it may be tempting to ignore the discomfort, seeking early intervention is essential. If left untreated, hammer toes can worsen over time, leading to more severe deformities and potential complications.

Shockwave Therapy Explained

Shockwave therapy is a non-invasive treatment that utilizes high-energy sound waves to stimulate healing and reduce pain in the affected area. Shockwave therapy, unlike surgical methods, does not involve any incisions or invasive approaches.

The shockwaves are generated by a specialized device and directed at the targeted area, in this case, the affected toes. These sound waves create micro-trauma in the tissue, triggering the body’s natural healing mechanisms. This process can help break down scar tissue, increase blood flow, and promote healthy tissue regeneration.

Compared to surgical options, shockwave therapy offers several advantages:

Non-Invasive: No incisions or surgical risks are involved.
No Downtime: Patients can typically return to normal activities immediately after treatment.
Cost-Effective: Shockwave therapy is generally less expensive than surgical procedures.
Minimal Side Effects: Potential side effects are minimal and may include temporary redness or mild discomfort.

Hammer Toes Treatment Process

So, what can you expect during a shockwave therapy treatment for hammer toes? Here’s a breakdown of the process:

Assessment: In my clinic, I check your condition to see if you can have shockwave therapy.
Preparation: Then I clean and numb the area with a mild anesthetic before treatment to reduce any pain.
Treatment: It involves placing a shockwave device on the problem area. I direct solid sound waves at the hammer toe. One shockwave session typically delivers 10-12 waves to the affected area.
Follow-Up: Depending on your serious condition, you may need several treatment sessions spread out over a few weeks.

Shockwave therapy is generally safe. However, there is a slight possibility of experiencing side effects. These side effects may include bruising and temporary pain in the treatment area.

Success Rates and Expectations

How effective is shockwave therapy for hammer toes? While results may vary from person to person, numerous studies have shown promising outcomes:

Pain relief: Many patients report significantly reduced pain and discomfort after undergoing shockwave therapy.
Improved mobility: The treatment can improve movement in the toe. It can make the toe more flexible and increase its range of motion. It can make walking and wearing shoes more comfortable.
Long-lasting results: Shockwave therapy can have long-lasting effects, lasting for months or even years, depending on the person’s situation.

Here’s what one of my patients, Sarah, had to say about her experience with shockwave therapy:

“I had been dealing with a painful hammer toe for years, and it was affecting my quality of life. After a few therapy sessions, my pain decreased a lot, and I could wear my favorite shoes without discomfort. I have been feeling the benefits for over a year now.

Shockwave therapy may not permanently straighten the toe but can improve foot and ankle function and quality of life. Having realistic expectations and understanding that this treatment is not a cure-all solution is essential. When used with proper shoes and exercises, shockwave therapy can help treat hammer toes effectively as part of conservative treatment.

Are hammer toes causing you discomfort and limiting your mobility?

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The Final Words

If you’re struggling with the pain and discomfort caused by hammer toes, don’t hesitate to explore shockwave therapy as a potential treatment option. As a chiropractor with over 25 years of experience, I’ve witnessed firsthand the remarkable benefits this non-invasive therapy can provide.

Remember, taking a proactive approach to your foot health is vital. Be sure to prevent the condition from worsening or leading to further complications. By seeking early intervention and exploring innovative treatments like shockwave therapy, you can improve your quality of life and get back to doing what you love without the constant discomfort of hammer toes holding you back.

So, why take the first step towards better foot health today? Consult my clinic to determine if shockwave therapy suits you. Your feet will thank you!

Dr. Craig Eymann

Meet Dr. Craig Eymann, a dedicated chiropractor and yoga enthusiast with over two decades of expertise in spinal health, sports chiropractic, and personalized care, prioritizing misalignment correction for swift injury resolution.